YouTube has implemented a new feature through which users will have the capacity to completely turn off the functionality of YouTube Shorts. This includes a new zero-minute feed limit option that can help users hide the Shorts feature from their homepage.
According to a statement by YouTube spokesperson Makenzie Spiller, cited by The Verge, the feature is now rolling out widely after initially being introduced within parental control settings.
The change comes at a time when concerns around excessive scrolling and screen time are intensifying globally, especially among younger users.
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A small setting with big implications
The feature works by using the existing time management features available on YouTube. Users who set their Shorts limit to 0 minutes will no longer see any short-form videos; instead, there is a message saying the daily limit has been met.
It used to be impossible to limit Shorts time below 15 minutes per day before.
This makes it easier for users to focus on watching long-form videos rather than spending hours engaging in the algorithm-driven content of Shorts feeds.
Why YouTube is doing this
In light of recent events, the change seems to be part of YouTube’s attempts to address digital wellbeing issues. Short-form videos have always been criticised for increasing screen time and lowering the attention span of users.
YouTube has already introduced restrictions on short form videos for young users as parents are able to disable Shorts. It now looks like YouTube is expanding this capability to other users too.
Notably, the Shorts feature is very popular on YouTube, according to CEO Neal Mohan, generating over 200 billion views every day.
How to turn off YouTube Shorts
Steps to disable Shorts include the following:
Go to YouTube and open Settings
Tap on Time Management
Tap on Daily Limits
Turn on Shorts Feed Limit
Set the daily limit to 0 minutes
After activation, you won’t see any Shorts feed for the remaining part of the day.
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Control shift but no strategy change
The new update allows users to gain more control over their viewing experience. However, it does not mean that YouTube is planning to stop investing in its Shorts feature. YouTube has plans to incorporate new updates that involve the use of AI technology and creator likeness.
It is clear that with this update, YouTube intends to act as an engagement-friendly yet control-friendly app.
